The retail sector has released its federal election priorities, calling on political leaders to adopt a growth-focused, forward-thinking approach to the sector which contributes more than 18% to Gross Domestic Product and employs one in ten Australians.
Peak retail bodies, the Australian Retailers Association (ARA) and the National Retail Association (ARA) have released a collaborative agenda, highlighting the following policy priorities as political leaders prepare for a future election:
- Embrace a growth mindset: strengthening consumer and business confidence
- Grow the retail workforce: drive productivity through flexible policies and training
- Collaborate on Community Outcomes: Tackling Crime, Cybersecurity, and Sustainability
The full document can be accessed at this link.
ARA Chief Industry Affairs Officer Fleur Brown says after one of the most challenging periods for retail, the sector's priorities focus on strengthening growth, driving productivity, and collaborative efforts with government to tackle community challenges.
"We can't have an economic recovery without a retail recovery. We urge political leaders to adopt policies that will strengthen consumer and business confidence, lower costs, and align national policies to ensure sustainable economic growth.
"With ongoing challenges from global disruptions and domestic economic pressures, it is essential that Australia's retail sector operates in a predictable and supportive environment.
"The retail sector contributes $430 billion to the Australian economy and employs 1.4 million people - playing a critical role in community wellbeing.
"To remain competitive, we need a future-ready workforce. The ARA is advocating for policies that drive productivity and address current skill shortages. This includes supporting vocational training programs and expanding flexible work policies.
"We also need to collaborate on solutions that provide better outcomes for both retailers and the broader community. These include reducing retail crime, enhancing cybersecurity and accelerating the transition to a low-carbon economy.
Ms Brown says these priorities represent a comprehensive vision for the future of retail in Australia.
"The ARA is committed to advocating for these critical reforms and looks forward to working alongside government leaders to deliver a brighter, more prosperous future for Australian retail."
National Retail Association Interim CEO Lindsay Carroll says retailers are looking forward to working with governments to deliver policies that help retailers bounce back from a rough couple of years.
"By growing Australia's retail industry, we create jobs, attract investment, and strengthen the communities where we live and work.
"The NRA will support regulation that curbs retail crime, encourages investment, and supports a diverse and flexible retail workforce.
"As we approach the next federal election, it's crucial that policies foster growth, reduce red tape, and provide the tools small retailers need to thrive in a competitive marketplace," Ms Carroll said.
"We are calling for additional investment to combat cybercrime, which costs small to medium businesses between $39,000 and $88,000 per year, and we must invest in resource recovery and circular economy principles.
"The NRA is committed to working with governments to deliver policies that empower retailers, support job creation, and promote a safer, more resilient retail environment for all Australians."
